Writing a CV for Jobs in the UK

UK CV conventions

**Personal statement.** UK CVs typically open with a 3-4 line personal statement that summarises your experience and what you are looking for. This is different from a US resume, which often skips this.

**No photo.** Like the US, photos are not included on UK CVs.

**References.** Write "References available on request" — you do not list referees on the CV itself.

**Length.** Two pages is standard in the UK for experienced candidates. One page is fine for graduates.

Structure

1. Name and contact details

2. Personal statement

3. Work experience (reverse chronological)

4. Education

5. Skills

6. References available on request

What UK employers look for

UK job adverts often specify required and desired competencies. Address each required competency explicitly somewhere in your CV or cover letter.

GCSE and A-level results matter more in the UK than equivalent qualifications do in other markets. Include them for the first 5-7 years of your career.